Semiconductor device and method of producing semiconductor device

ABSTRACT

A semiconductor device provided on a semiconductor substrate includes an element region including an element, a moisture-resistant frame surrounding the element region, an insulating layer provided between the moisture-resistant frame and an outer peripheral edge of the semiconductor device and on the semiconductor substrate, a first metal line extending along the outer peripheral edge and provided in the insulating layer, and a groove provided in the insulating layer.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/837,725 filed Dec. 11, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/274,787, filed on Sep. 23, 2016, and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,881,878 on Jan. 30, 2018, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/793,510, filed on Jul. 7, 2015, and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,824,981 on Nov. 21, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/463,399, filed on May 3, 2012, now Abandoned, which is a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/053,903, filed on Mar. 24, 2008 and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,193,614 on Jun. 5, 2012, which claims priority from JP 2007-074424, filed Mar. 22, 2007 and JP 2007-338951, filed Dec. 28, 2007, upon which this patent application is based, is hereby incorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The embodiments relate to a semiconductor device and a method of producing the same.

BACKGROUND

In the formation of semiconductor devices on a wafer, the number of effective chips is determined by the area of the semiconductor devices and the area of scribe line regions. Consequently, it has been desired that the number of effective chips per wafer be increased by reducing the area of the scribe line regions.

The scribe line regions are regions required for separating a plurality of semiconductor devices formed on a wafer into chips by laser cutting or cutting with a dicing saw.

Semiconductor devices each include a circuit pattern region and an outer peripheral region for absorbing cracks formed when the semiconductor devices are separated from each other, the outer peripheral region being adjacent to the circuit pattern region and a scribe line region. The outer peripheral region for absorbing cracks due to a chip cutting extends from an edge of the scribe line region to a moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield disposed within the chip. The moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield is disposed at the boundary between the circuit pattern region and the outer peripheral region. The moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield is provided in order to prevent moisture from entering the inside of the semiconductor device from the cut surfaces after the plurality of semiconductor devices formed on the wafer are separated from each other.

According to a known technique for reducing the outer peripheral region that absorbs cracks, a groove for preventing propagation of cracks is provided on a cover film provided as an uppermost layer of a semiconductor device at a position between an edge of a scribe line region and a moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield (see, for example, Japanese Laid-open Patent Application Publication No. 9-199449). According to another technique, a groove extending from the top of a semiconductor device to a substrate is formed at a position between an edge of a scribe line region and a moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield, and the groove is then filled with a metal material (see, for example, Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 10-41408).

SUMMARY

An aspect of the embodiments provides a semiconductor device provided on a semiconductor substrate including an element region including an element, a moisture-resistant frame surrounding the element region, an insulating layer provided between the moisture-resistant frame and an outer peripheral edge of the semiconductor device and over the semiconductor substrate, a first metal line extending along the outer peripheral edge and provided in the insulating layer, and a groove provided in the insulating layer.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a plan view showing a semiconductor device of a first embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a plan view showing a modification of the semiconductor device of the first embodiment;

FIGS. 3A and 3B are cross-sectional views of the semiconductor device of the first embodiment and show an advantage of a metal line 2 b in the first embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a modification of the semiconductor device of the first embodiment and shows a cross section corresponding to an A-A′ cross section of FIG. 1 or FIG. 2;

FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C are views illustrating steps of producing a semiconductor device of the first embodiment using an A-A′ cross section and a B-B′ cross section of FIG. 1 or FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 includes cross-sectional views showing the A-A′ cross section and the B-B′ cross section of FIG. 1 or FIG. 2 of the semiconductor device of the first embodiment obtained after steps of forming an upper-layer wiring, steps of forming an uppermost-layer wiring, and steps of forming cover films;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing an A-A′ cross section of a semiconductor device of a second embodiment;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing an A-A′ cross section of a semiconductor device of a third embodiment;

FIG. 9 is a plan view showing a semiconductor device of a fourth embodiment;

FIG. 10 is a plan view showing a modification of the semiconductor device of the fourth embodiment;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a first example of an A-A′ cross-sectional structure of the semiconductor device of the fourth embodiment;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing a second example of an A-A′ cross-sectional structure of the semiconductor device of the fourth embodiment;

FIG. 13 is a plan view showing a semiconductor device of a fifth embodiment;

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of an A-A′ cross-sectional structure of the semiconductor device of the fifth embodiment;

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing an A-A′ cross-sectional structure of a modification 1 of the semiconductor device of the fifth embodiment;

FIG. 16 is a plan view of a portion where scribe regions 8 b intersect each other in the case where semiconductor devices of a sixth embodiment are arranged in a matrix shape;

FIG. 17A is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C′ in FIG. 16;

FIG. 17B is a cross-sectional view taken along line D-D′ in FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a view showing a cross section taken along line C-C′ in FIG. 16 in a seventh embodiment;

FIGS. 19A to 19F each show a planar shape of a metal pattern constituting a metal line; and

FIG. 19G is a view showing a part of the shape of a mask pattern of a mask used for forming a basic metal line.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

A first embodiment, a second embodiment, a third embodiment, a fourth embodiment, a fifth embodiment, a sixth embodiment, a seventh embodiment, and an eighth embodiment will now be described. The present invention is not limited to these embodiments.

First Embodiment

A first embodiment relates to a semiconductor device including, in an outer peripheral region disposed between an element region in which a semiconductor element is provided and a scribe region, a metal line embedded in grooves which are provided in insulating layers so as to surround the element region, and in the outer peripheral region, a groove provided in an uppermost insulating film on the metal line.

The first embodiment will now be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6.

FIG. 1 is a plan view showing a semiconductor device of the first embodiment. FIG. 1 shows a scribe edge 1, an opening 2 a, a metal line 2 b, a moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3, an element region 8 a, a scribe region 8 b, and an outer peripheral region 8 c.

The element region 8 a is a region where a pattern of semiconductor circuits is formed in the semiconductor device.

The scribe region 8 b is a region to be cut when semiconductor devices formed on a wafer are separated from each other.

The outer peripheral region 8 c is a region that is located between the scribe region 8 b and the element region 8 a and that is disposed so as to surround the element region 8 a in the semiconductor device.

The scribe edge 1 is a boundary between the scribe region 8 b and the semiconductor device. More specifically, the scribe edge 1 is a boundary between the scribe region 8 b and the outer peripheral region 8 c.

The opening 2 a is a groove-shaped opening provided in an uppermost insulating film included in the semiconductor device.

The opening 2 a is disposed in the outer peripheral region 8 c so as to surround the element region 8 a in the form of a frame. The opening 2 a is disposed at a position where the opening 2 a two-dimensionally overlaps with the metal line 2 b described below.

The opening 2 a prevents detachment or a crack of the uppermost insulating film, which is generated when the semiconductor device is cut with a laser beam or a saw of a dicing machine in the scribe region 8 b, from extending into the element region 8 a.

The reason for this is believed to be as follows. Since the opening 2 a is provided in the uppermost insulating film in the form of a groove, propagation of a crack in the uppermost insulating film from the side of the scribe region 8 b can be stopped.

The metal line 2 b is made of the same metal material as wirings included in the semiconductor device. As described below, the metal line 2 b is formed by filling grooves, which are provided in insulating layers so as to surround the element region 8 a, with the metal material. The insulating layers are insulating layers that separate wiring layers in the semiconductor device.

Here, as described below, the metal line 2 b prevents propagation of cracks in the insulating layers propagating from the side of the scribe region 8 b into the element region 8 a. Insulating materials, which do not have elasticity, are easily broken when stress is applied thereto. In contrast, since metal materials have elasticity, a large amount of stress is required for breaking. Accordingly, it is believed that when a metal material is filled in the grooves in the insulating layers, propagation of cracks in the insulating layers can be prevented.

The moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3 is made of the same metal material as wirings included in the semiconductor device. The moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3 is disposed at the boundary between the element region 8 a and the outer peripheral region 8 c so as to surround the element region 8 a. As described below, the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3 is composed of all wiring layers included the semiconductor device. All wirings constituting the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3 are connected by metal plugs that are provided between the wirings so as to connect upper and lower wirings and that are embedded in the grooves. As described below, the term “metal plug” mainly refers to a whole metal material embedded in a contact window, but also refers to a whole metal material embedded in a groove.

The moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3 prevents intrusion of moisture from the scribe region 8 b to the element region 8 a after the semiconductor devices are separated from each other by cutting. This is because the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3 has a metal wall-like shape surrounding the element region 8 a. It is also believed that intrusion of moisture into the element region 8 a can be prevented because the metal material constituting the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3 reacts with moisture, and thus the moisture remains in the area of the metal material.

FIG. 2 is a plan view showing a modification of the semiconductor device of the first embodiment. FIG. 2 shows a scribe edge 1, a C-window shield 6 a, a metal line 6 b, a moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3, an element region 8 a, a scribe region 8 b, and an outer peripheral region 8 c. The same components as those shown in FIG. 1 are assigned the same reference numerals. Specifically, the scribe edge 1, the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3, the element region 8 a, the scribe region 8 b, and the outer peripheral region 8 c are the same as those shown in FIG. 1.

The C-window shield 6 a is disposed in the outer peripheral region 8 c and is an opening provided in an uppermost insulating film included in the semiconductor device. The C-window shield 6 a is composed of four rectangular grooves each having the same length as that of an edge of the element region 8 a. The four grooves are arranged so as to surround the element region 8 a. However, the four grooves are discontinuous at four corners of the element region 8 a. In addition, the four grooves are disposed at positions where the four grooves two-dimensionally overlap with the metal line 6 b described below. The C-window shield 6 a has the same function as that of the opening 2 a.

The metal line 6 b is made of the same metal material as wirings included in the semiconductor device. As described below, the metal line 6 b is formed by filling the four rectangular grooves, which are provided in insulating layers so as to surround the element region 8 a, with the metal material. Specifically, the four grooves do not form a frame shape but are discontinuous at the four corners of the element region 8 a. The insulating layers are insulating layers that separate wiring layers in the semiconductor device. An advantage of the presence of the metal line 6 b is the same as that of the metal line 2 b described above.

The enlarged view indicated by the thin line arrow shows a corner of the element region 8 a. The structure of this modification can prevent stress between each of the insulating layers and the metal material, which is generated when the metal material is elongated by thermal expansion, from being accumulated between grooves having the metal material therein. The reason for this is as follows. The above-mentioned metal line 2 b has a planar shape in which the angle is 90 degrees at corners. Therefore, stress is concentrated on the corners. In contrast, regarding the metal line 6 b, in a direction in which stress is applied, each of the insulating layers and the metal material are in contact with each other in an edge of the groove having the metal therein. As a result, the stress can be dispersed.

In addition, as shown in another enlarged view indicated by the thick arrow, by chamfering the corners of the metal line 2 b, stress can be similarly dispersed at the corners of the metal line 2 b. This is because, in a direction in which stress is applied, similarly, each of the insulating layers and the metal material are in contact with each other in a chamfered edge.

FIGS. 3A and 3B are cross-sectional views of a semiconductor device of the first embodiment and show an advantage of the metal line 2 b in the first embodiment. FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view showing an A-A′ cross section of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view showing a B-B′ cross section of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2.

FIGS. 3A and 3B show a scribe edge 1, an opening 2 a, a metal line 2 b, a moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3, a shallow trench isolation (STI) 10, a source region 11 of a MOS transistor, a drain region 12 of the MOS transistor, a gate electrode 13 of the MOS transistor, side walls 14, a substrate 15 a, a well 15 b, an insulating film 16, a contact interlayer film 17, a contact interlayer film 18, wiring interlayer films 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, and 31, cover films 32 a and 32 b, wiring-and-plugs 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, and 39, a plug 42, a wiring 43, wirings 45 a, 45 b, 45 c, 45 d, 45 e, 45 f, and 45 g, wiring-and-plugs 46 a, 46 b, 46 c, 46 d, 46 e, 46 f, and 46 g, a plug 46 h, a wiring 46 i, and arrows 60, 61, 62, and 63.

The scribe edge 1, the opening 2 a, the metal line 2 b, and the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3 are the same as the scribe edge 1, the opening 2 a, the metal line 2 b, and the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3 described with reference to FIG. 1.

The B-B′ cross section, which relates to the element region 8 a, will now be described with reference to FIG. 3B. FIG. 3B shows a bulk portion including a MOS transistor and the like, a lower-layer wiring portion, an intermediate-layer wiring portion, an upper-layer wiring portion, an uppermost-layer wiring portion, and a cover film portion.

The bulk portion includes the substrate 15 a, the well 15 b, the STI 10, the MOS transistor, and the insulating film 16.

The substrate 15 a is a semiconductor substrate on which semiconductor elements are formed and has a predetermined conductivity type. The STI 10 is an element isolation that electrically isolates the semiconductor elements. The STI 10 is composed of a groove provided between semiconductor elements and an insulating material filling the groove. The well 15 b is an impurity region provided from the surface of the substrate 15 a toward the inside of the substrate 15 a. An impurity of a conductivity type opposite to that of the MOS transistor formed in the well 15 b is diffused in the well 15 b.

The source region 11 of the MOS transistor is a region forming a source electrode of the MOS transistor, and is an impurity diffusion region in which an impurity of a conductivity type different from the conductivity type of the substrate 15 a is introduced in the substrate 15 a. The drain region 12 of the MOS transistor is a region forming a drain electrode of the MOS transistor, and is an impurity diffusion region similar to the source region 11. The gate electrode 13 of the MOS transistor is disposed on a gate oxide film provided on the surface of the substrate 15 a. The gate electrode 13 is made of, for example, polysilicon, a silicide, a metal, or the like. The drain region 12 and the source region 11 are disposed at both sides of the gate electrode 13 of the MOS transistor. The side walls 14 are provided on the sidewalls of the gate electrode 13 and are composed of, for example, a silicon oxide film. The insulating film 16 is an insulating film provided on the MOS transistor and is composed of, for example, a silicon oxide film.

The lower-layer wiring portion includes the contact interlayer films 17 and 18, and four layer units disposed on the contact interlayer films, each of the layer units being composed of a wiring layer and an interlayer film of the wiring layer.

The contact interlayer films 17 and 18 are sequentially stacked on the insulating film 16. The contact interlayer films 17 and 18 are insulating films provided between the MOS transistor and a wiring for being electrically in contact with the MOS transistor. The wiring-and-plug 33 is composed of a wiring that is embedded in a groove in the contact interlayer film 18 and is electrically in contact with the MOS transistor, and a contact plug embedded in a via in the contact interlayer film 17. Note that the term “via” refers to an opening provided so as to penetrate through an insulating film. The term “contact plug” refers to a rod-like metal block that is connected to wirings at the top and the bottom thereof so as to electrically connect the upper wiring to the lower wiring. The wirings and the contact plug are made of a metal material such as copper, or copper and tantalum or tantalum nitride that is provided at the boundary between copper and an insulating film. Copper is a main component of the wirings. Tantalum or tantalum nitride functions as a diffusion-preventing film that prevents copper from diffusing in the insulating film.

The wiring interlayer films 19 and 20, which are sequentially stacked on the contact interlayer film 18, are insulating films provided between wirings. The wiring-and-plug 34 is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 20 and a contact plug embedded in a via in the wiring interlayer film 19. These wiring and contact plug have the same structures as those described above.

The wiring interlayer films 21 and 22, which are sequentially stacked on the wiring interlayer film 20, are insulating films provided between wirings. The wiring-and-plug 35 is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 22 and a contact plug embedded in a via in the wiring interlayer film 21. These wiring and contact plug have the same structures as those described above.

The wiring interlayer films 23 and 24, which are sequentially stacked on the wiring interlayer film 22, are insulating films provided between wirings. The wiring-and-plug 36 is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 24 and a contact plug embedded in a via in the wiring interlayer film 23. These wiring and contact plug have the same structures as those described above.

The intermediate-layer wiring portion includes the wiring interlayer films 25 and 26, and two layer units disposed on the wiring interlayer films, each of the layer units being composed of a wiring layer and an interlayer film of the wiring layer.

The wiring interlayer films 25 and 26, which are sequentially stacked on the wiring interlayer film 24, are insulating films provided between wirings. The wiring-and-plug 37 is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 26 and a contact plug embedded in a via in the wiring interlayer film 25. These wiring and contact plug have the same structures as those described above.

The wiring interlayer films 27 and 28, which are sequentially stacked on the wiring interlayer film 26, are insulating films provided between wirings. The wiring-and-plug 38 is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 28 and a contact plug embedded in a via in the wiring interlayer film 27. These wiring and contact plug have the same structures as those described above.

The upper-layer wiring portion includes the wiring interlayer films 29 and 30 and a wiring layer disposed on the wiring interlayer films.

The wiring interlayer films 29 and 30, which are sequentially stacked on the wiring interlayer film 28, are insulating films provided between wirings. The wiring-and-plug 39 is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 30 and a contact plug embedded in a via in the wiring interlayer film 29. These wiring and contact plug have the same structures as those described above.

The uppermost-layer wiring portion includes the wiring interlayer film 31, the plug 42, and the wiring 43 composed of a wiring layer disposed on the wiring interlayer film 31 and the plug 42.

The wiring interlayer film 31, which is stacked on the wiring interlayer film 30, is an insulating film provided between wirings. The plug 42 is composed of a contact plug embedded in a via in the wiring interlayer film 31. The contact plug of the plug 42 may be made of copper the surface of which is covered with titanium nitride. Alternatively, this contact plug may be made of tungsten.

The wiring 43 is an uppermost wiring provided on the wiring interlayer film 31. The wiring 43 is made of copper or aluminum. When the wiring 43 is made of aluminum as shown in the figure, the wiring 43 is formed by etching using a resist patterned by photolithography as a mask. Although not shown in the figure, when the wiring 43 is made of copper, the wiring 43 is formed by forming a groove in the cover film 32 a and then embedding copper in the groove.

The cover film portion includes the cover film 32 a and the cover film 32 b. The cover film 32 a is an insulating film stacked on the wiring 43. The cover film 32 b is an uppermost insulating film stacked on the cover film 32 a.

The A-A′ cross section, which relates to the portion ranging from the scribe region 8 b to the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3, will now be described with reference to FIG. 3A. FIG. 3A shows the scribe edge 1, the metal line 2 b, the opening 2 a, and the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3.

The moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3 is composed of wiring-and-plugs 46 a, 46 b, 46 c, 46 d, 46 e, 46 f, and 46 g, the plug 46 h, and the wiring 46 i.

The wiring-and-plug 46 a is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the contact interlayer film 18 and a contact plug embedded in a via in the contact interlayer film 17. The above via includes not only a normal rectangular via used in the element region 8 a but also a groove-shaped via. The wiring-and-plug 46 a is connected to the substrate 15 a. The wiring-and-plug 46 a is made of, for example, copper covered with tantalum or tantalum nitride. Tantalum or tantalum nitride functions as a diffusion-preventing film that prevents copper from diffusing in the contact interlayer films 17 and 18.

The wiring-and-plug 46 b is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 20 and a contact plug embedded in a via in the wiring interlayer film 19. The wiring-and-plug 46 b is connected to the wiring-and-plug 46 a. The wiring-and-plug 46 b is also formed by a dual damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring-and-plug.

The wiring-and-plug 46 c is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 22 and a contact plug embedded in a via in the wiring interlayer film 21. The wiring-and-plug 46 c is connected to the wiring-and-plug 46 b. The wiring-and-plug 46 c is also formed by a dual damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring-and-plug.

The wiring-and-plug 46 d is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 24 and a contact plug embedded in a via in the wiring interlayer film 23. The wiring-and-plug 46 d is connected to the wiring-and-plug 46 c. The wiring-and-plug 46 d is also formed by a dual damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring-and-plug.

The wiring-and-plug 46 e is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 26 and a contact plug embedded in a via in the wiring interlayer film 25. The wiring-and-plug 46 e is connected to the wiring-and-plug 46 d. The wiring-and-plug 46 e is also formed by a dual damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring-and-plug.

The wiring-and-plug 46 f is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 28 and a contact plug embedded in a via in the wiring interlayer film 27. The wiring-and-plug 46 f is connected to the wiring-and-plug 46 e. The wiring-and-plug 46 f is also formed by a dual damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring-and-plug.

The wiring-and-plug 46 g is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 30 and a contact plug embedded in a via in the wiring interlayer film 29. The wiring-and-plug 46 g is connected to the wiring-and-plug 46 f. The wiring-and-plug 46 g is also formed by a dual damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring-and-plug.

The plug 46 h is a contact plug embedded in a via in the wiring interlayer film 31. The wiring-and-plug 46 h is connected to the wiring-and-plug 46 g. This contact plug may be made of copper covered with tantalum or tantalum nitride. Alternatively, this contact plug may be made of tungsten.

The wiring 46 i is a wiring provided on the wiring interlayer film 31. The wiring 46 i is connected to the plug 46 h. The wiring 46 i is made of copper or aluminum. When the wiring 46 i is made of aluminum as shown in the figure, the wiring 46 i is formed by etching using a resist patterned by photolithography as a mask. Although not shown in the figure, when the wiring 46 i is made of copper, the wiring 46 i is formed by forming a groove in the cover film 32 a and then embedding copper in the groove.

The metal line 2 b is composed of the wirings 45 a, 45 b, 45 c, 45 d, 45 e, 45 f, and 45 g. The wirings constituting the metal line 2 b do not include a wiring disposed at a position corresponding to the plug 46 h and the wiring 46 i forming the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3. This is because it is necessary to ensure a certain amount of the depth of a groove of the opening 2 a described below.

The wiring 45 a is made of a metal material embedded in a groove in the contact interlayer film 18. The metal material is copper covered with tantalum or tantalum nitride. Tantalum or tantalum nitride functions as a diffusion-preventing film that prevents copper from diffusing in the contact interlayer film 18.

The wiring 45 b is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 20. The wiring 45 b is also formed by a damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring.

The wiring 45 c is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 22. The wiring 45 c is also formed by a damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring.

The wiring 45 d is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 24. The wiring 45 d is also formed by a damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring.

The wiring 45 e is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 26. The wiring 45 e is also formed by a damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring.

The wiring 45 f is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 28. The wiring 45 f is also formed by a damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring.

The wiring 45 g is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 30. The wiring 45 g is also formed by a damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring.

The opening 2 a is a groove formed in the cover films 32 a and 32 b. For example, as shown in FIG. 3A, the opening 2 a is a groove that penetrates through the cover film 32 b and that reaches at a halfway position of the cover film 32 a.

Note that the planar position of an edge of the groove constituting the opening 2 a at the side of the element region 8 a is aligned with that of an edge of the wirings 45 a to 45 g at the side of the element region 8 a. However, even if the position of the edge of the wirings 45 a to 45 g at the side of the element region 8 a is shifted from the position of the edge of the groove constituting the opening 2 a at the side of the element region 8 a within the range of 1 to 10 μm in the horizontal direction of the cross-sectional view, an advantage achieved by the presence of the opening 2 a and the metal line 2 b does not decrease.

The scribe edge 1 is an edge of the outermost periphery of the semiconductor device.

The advantage of the presence of the opening 2 a and the metal line 2 b in the semiconductor device of the first embodiment will now be described with reference to FIG. 3A.

In FIG. 3A, each of the arrows 60 and 61 shows a propagation state of a crack formed in the scribe edge 1 when the semiconductor device is cut in the scribe region 8 b.

Here, in the semiconductor device, in order to form eight wiring layers, fifteen wiring interlayer films are provided, as shown in FIG. 3B. Accordingly, it is believed that the crack propagates along the wiring interlayer films as shown by the arrow 60 or 61.

Consequently, it is believed that when the metal line 2 b formed by filling a groove in each of the wiring interlayer films with a metal material is provided, propagation of the crack in the wiring interlayer films can be prevented.

Insulating materials constituting the wiring interlayer films, which will be described below, do not have elasticity. Therefore, such insulating materials are easily broken when stress is applied thereto. In contrast, metal materials have elasticity, and thus, it is believed that such metal materials are not broken even when stress is applied thereto. The reason for this is as follows. When stress due to propagation of cracks is applied to a metal material, the metal material undergoes elastic deformation, thereby releasing the stress. In addition, a stress that exceeds the limit of elastic deformation of a metal material and that results in the metal material being broken is larger than a stress that results in an insulating material being broken.

Accordingly, the metal line 2 b provides an advantage of reliably preventing propagation of cracks in the wiring interlayer films.

Next, in FIG. 3A, the arrow 63 shows a phenomenon in which a crack propagates from an edge of the opening 2 a unless the metal line 2 b is provided.

The reason why a crack propagates from an edge of the opening 2 a is as follows. First, detachment of a cover film that occurs during cutting of the semiconductor device in the scribe region 8 b extends. Extension of the detachment of the cover film is prevented because the groove of the opening 2 a is provided in the cover film in advance. In this case, a force from the scribe region 8 b is applied at the side of the element region 8 a of the groove of the opening 2 a.

Consequently, the present inventor has found that when the metal line 2 b is provided in FIG. 3A, a crack propagating from the edge of the opening 2 a propagates along the metal line 2 b as shown by the arrow 62.

This structure is advantageous in that the crack propagating from the edge of the opening 2 a does not reach the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3, and the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3 and the element region 8 a are protected by the metal line 2 b.

Accordingly, this structure is advantageous in that propagation of cracks formed at the side of the element region 8 a of the metal line 2 b can also be reliably prevented.

Thus, the semiconductor device of the first embodiment is a semiconductor device having a crack-propagation-preventing structure composed of the metal line 2 b and the opening 2 a.

A modification of the semiconductor device of the first embodiment will now be described with reference to FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a modification of the semiconductor device of the first embodiment and shows a cross section corresponding to the A-A′ cross section of FIG. 1 or FIG. 2. FIG. 4 shows a scribe edge 1, an opening 2 a, a metal line 2 b, a moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3, an insulating film 16, a contact interlayer film 17, a contact interlayer film 18, wiring interlayer films 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, and 31, cover films 32 a and 32 b, wirings 45 a, 45 b, 45 c, 45 d, 45 e, 45 f, 45 g, and 45 h, wiring-and-plugs 46 a, 46 b, 46 c, 46 d, 46 e, 46 f, and 46 g, a plug 46 h, a wiring 46 i, and arrows 60, 61, 62, and 63.

The same components as those shown in FIG. 1 are assigned the same reference numerals. Specifically, the scribe edge 1, the opening 2 a, the metal line 2 b, and the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3 are the same as the scribe edge 1, the opening 2 a, the metal line 2 b, and the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3 that are described with reference to FIG. 1. The insulating film 16, the contact interlayer film 17, the contact interlayer film 18, the wiring interlayer films 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, and 31, and the cover films 32 a and 32 b are also the same as those described with reference to FIG. 1. However, this semiconductor device differs from the above-described semiconductor device in that the metal line 2 b is composed of the wirings 45 a, 45 b, 45 c, 45 d, 45 e, 45 f, 45 g, and 45 h. That is, this semiconductor device further includes the wiring 45 h.

The wiring 45 h is a metal wiring that belongs to a wiring layer (i.e., uppermost wiring layer) to which the wiring 46 i of the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3 also belongs. The wiring 45 h is made of aluminum. Accordingly, the wiring 45 h is formed by the same step as that of forming the wiring 43 using aluminum between the steps of forming the wiring 43 in the element region 8 a.

The wiring 45 h has a frame shape surrounding the element region 8 b and the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3. The width of the wiring 45 h is larger than the width of the groove of the opening 2 a.

The semiconductor device of the first embodiment does not include a wiring corresponding to the wiring 46 i of the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3. This is because, in the case where the wiring corresponding to the wiring 46 i is made of copper, a phenomenon should be prevented in which copper is exposed and a metal contamination due to copper occurs in a process apparatus.

In contrast, in this modification of the semiconductor device of the first embodiment, since the wiring 45 h is made of aluminum, the problem of the metal contamination does not occur. It is known that even if a metal contamination due to aluminum occurs, the effect thereof is negligible.

Accordingly, although the cover film 32 a remains between the bottom of the opening 2 a and the wiring 45 h in FIG. 4, the opening 2 a may reach the wiring 45 h.

An advantage of the presence of the opening 2 a and the metal line 2 b in the modification of the semiconductor device of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 4 is as follows.

In FIG. 4, when a crack propagates from the direction shown by the arrow 60 or 61, propagation of the crack can be prevented as in the case of the metal line 2 b of the semiconductor device of the first embodiment.

As described above, in the case where the metal line 2 b is not provided, a crack propagates from an edge of the opening 2 a in the direction shown by the arrow 63.

In the metal line 2 b of the semiconductor device of the first embodiment, the direction in which the crack propagates is changed to the direction shown by the arrow 62 because of the presence of the wirings 45 a to 45 g. Thus, propagation of cracks into the element region 8 a can be prevented.

In contrast, in the metal line 2 b of the modification of the semiconductor device of the first embodiment, the metal line 2 b includes the wiring 45 h, and the width of the wiring 45 h is larger than the width of the groove of the opening 2 a. Therefore, this structure is advantageous in that propagation of a crack in the direction shown by the arrow 63 can be prevented in the first place. This is because the wiring 45 h made of aluminum has high elasticity.

A method of producing a semiconductor device of the first embodiment will now be described with reference to FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, and 6.

FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C are views illustrating steps of producing the semiconductor device of the first embodiment using an A-A′ cross section and a B-B′ cross section of FIG. 1 or FIG. 2. FIG. 6 includes views showing an A-A′ cross section and a B-B′ cross section of FIG. 1 or FIG. 2 of the semiconductor device of the first embodiment obtained after steps of forming an upper-layer wiring, steps of forming an uppermost-layer wiring, and steps of forming cover films. FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, and 6 show an opening 2 a, a metal line 2 b, a moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3, a STI 10, a source region 11 of a MOS transistor, a drain region 12 of the MOS transistor, a gate electrode 13 of the MOS transistor, side walls 14, a substrate 15 a, a well 15 b, an insulating film 16, a contact interlayer film 17, a contact interlayer film 18, wiring interlayer films 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, and 31, cover films 32 a and 32 b, wiring-and-plugs 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, and 39, a plug 42, a wiring 43, wirings 45 a, 45 b, 45 c, 45 d, 45 e, 45 f, and 45 g, wiring-and-plugs 46 a, 46 b, 46 c, 46 d, 46 e, 46 f, and 46 g, a plug 46 h, and a wiring 46 i. The same components as those shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B are assigned the same reference numerals.

FIG. 5A shows the A-A′ cross section and the B-B′ cross section of FIG. 1 or FIG. 2. FIG. 5A shows a cross section of the semiconductor device of the first embodiment obtained after steps of forming a bulk. The steps of forming a bulk include steps of forming the MOS transistor by a known process.

For example, as shown in the B-B′ cross section of FIG. 5A, the STI 10 for electrically isolating a semiconductor element is formed on the substrate 15 a. Subsequently, an impurity of a conductivity type opposite to that of the MOS transistor is introduced in the well 15 b by ion implantation. A heat treatment is then performed to form the well 15 b. A gate insulating film is formed on the surface of the substrate 15 a. A silicon oxide film or a high dielectric film is used as the gate insulating film. Subsequently, polysilicon is deposited on the gate insulating film, and a photomask having the shape of a gate electrode is then formed thereon by photolithography. The polysilicon is then etched by anisotropic etching to form the gate electrode 13. Subsequently, an impurity of a conductivity type the same as the conductivity type of the MOS transistor is introduced in source/drain extension regions by ion implantation using the gate electrode 13 as a mask. Accordingly, the source/drain extension regions are formed at both sides of the gate electrode 13. An insulating film is deposited on the MOS transistor and then anisotropically etched, thereby forming the side walls 14 on the side walls of the gate electrode 13. An impurity of a conductivity type the same as the conductivity type of the MOS transistor is introduced in source/drain regions by ion implantation using the gate electrode 13 and the side walls 14 as a mask. Accordingly, the source/drain regions are formed at both sides of the side walls 14, thus forming a diffusion region where the source/drain regions are integrated with the source/drain extension regions. The insulating film 16 is then deposited on the MOS transistor.

On the other hand, in the A-A′ cross section of FIG. 5A, the gate insulating film and the insulating film 16 are also formed on the portion corresponding to the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3 in the step of forming the gate insulating film and the step of forming the insulating film 16, respectively, among the above-described steps. However, no components are formed in other steps. However, a diffusion layer in which an impurity of a conductivity type the same as the conductivity type of the substrate 15 a is introduced may be formed in the substrate 15 a located under the wiring-and-plug 46 a included in the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3 in the step of forming the source/drain regions of the MOS transistor. This is because the electric potential of the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3 is stabilized. Furthermore, the gate insulating film and the insulating film 16 are also formed at the position corresponding to the metal line 2 b in the step of forming the gate insulating film and the step of forming the insulating film 16, respectively.

FIG. 5B shows the A-A′ cross section and the B-B′ cross section of FIG. 1 or FIG. 2 of the semiconductor device of the first embodiment obtained after steps of forming a lower-layer wiring. The steps of forming a lower-layer wiring include steps of forming the lower-layer wiring portion by a known process, i.e., a dual damascene process.

For example, in the B-B′ cross section of FIG. 5B, the contact interlayer film 17 composed of a silicon oxide film and a silicon nitride film, and the contact interlayer film 18 composed of a silicon oxide film are deposited by chemical vapor deposition (CVD).

Subsequently, a groove for forming a wiring connected to the MOS transistor therein is formed in the contact interlayer film 18. A via that is in contact with the source region 11, the drain region 12, and the gate electrode 13 of the MOS transistor is then formed in the contact interlayer film 17. Subsequently, tantalum or tantalum nitride is deposited inside the via and the groove by CVD. Copper is then deposited thereon by plating. Copper disposed on the contact interlayer film 18 is then removed by chemical mechanical polishing (CMP).

As a result, copper is embedded in the groove and the via to form the wiring-and-plug 33.

On the other hand, in the A-A′ cross section of FIG. 5B, the above-described steps are performed in the same manner, and thus, the wiring-and-plug 46 a is formed at the position corresponding to the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3. No via is formed in the contact interlayer film 17 at the position corresponding to the metal line 2 b. Consequently, a plug made of copper is not formed in the contact interlayer film 17. Accordingly, in the above steps, the wiring 45 a is formed in a groove in the contact interlayer film 18 at the position corresponding to the metal line 2 b.

The wiring interlayer films 19 and 20, the wiring-and-plug 34, the wiring-and-plug 46 b forming the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3, and the wiring 45 b forming the metal line 2 b, all of which are shown in FIG. 5B, are formed by the same steps as those described above.

Furthermore, the wiring interlayer films 21, 22, 23, and 24, the wiring-and-plugs 35 and 36, the wiring-and-plugs 46 c and 46 d forming the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3, and the wirings 45 c and 45 d forming the metal line 2 b, all of which are shown in FIG. 5B, are formed by repeating the same steps as those described above.

FIG. 5C shows the A-A′ cross section and the B-B′ cross section of FIG. 1 or FIG. 2 of the semiconductor device of the first embodiment obtained after steps of forming an intermediate-layer wiring. The steps of forming an intermediate-layer wiring include steps of forming the intermediate-layer wiring portion by a known process, i.e., a dual damascene process.

Accordingly, the wiring interlayer films 25, 26, 27, and 28, the wiring-and-plugs 37 and 38, the wiring-and-plugs 46 e and 46 f forming the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3, and the wirings 45 e and 45 f forming the metal line 2 b are formed by repeating the same steps as those described in the steps of forming a lower-layer wiring.

FIG. 6 includes cross-sectional views showing the A-A′ cross section and the B-B′ cross section of FIG. 1 or FIG. 2 of the semiconductor device of the first embodiment obtained after steps of forming an upper-layer wiring, steps of forming an uppermost-layer wiring, and steps of forming cover films.

The steps of forming an upper-layer wiring include steps of forming the upper-layer wiring portion by a known process, i.e., a dual damascene process. Accordingly, the wiring interlayer films 29 and 30, the wiring-and-plug 39, the wiring-and-plug 46 g forming the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3, and the wiring 45 g forming the metal line 2 b are formed by the same steps as those described above.

The steps of forming an uppermost-layer wiring include steps of forming the uppermost-layer wiring portion by known steps of forming a wiring and a plug.

For example, as shown in the B-B′ cross section of FIG. 6, the wiring interlayer film 31 composed of a silicon oxide film is deposited by CVD. A via to be connected to the wiring-and-plug 39 is then formed on the wiring interlayer film 31. Subsequently, tungsten is deposited over the entire surface of the wiring interlayer film 31 by sputtering or CVD. Tungsten deposited on the wiring interlayer film 31 is then removed by CMP. Consequently, tungsten is embedded in the via in the wiring interlayer film 31, thus forming the plug 42 made of tungsten. Subsequently, aluminum is deposited on the wiring interlayer film 31 by sputtering. A resist pattern having a shape of wiring is then formed on aluminum by photolithography. The resist pattern is then anisotropically etched to form the wiring 43.

On the other hand, as shown in the A-A′ cross section of FIG. 6, the plug 46 h and the wiring 46 i of the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3 are formed by the same steps as those described above.

An uppermost-layer wiring forming the metal line 2 b is not formed in order that the bottom of a groove of the opening 2 a described below is not in contact with the uppermost-layer wiring when the opening 2 a is formed. When an uppermost-layer wiring forming the metal line 2 b is provided and if the bottom of the groove of the opening 2 a is in contact with the uppermost-layer wiring, the following problem occurs. In the case where the uppermost-layer wiring is made of copper, copper is exposed and a process apparatus may be contaminated with copper in the step and subsequent steps. In addition, unless the depth of the groove of the opening 2 a is sufficient, extension of the detachment of the cover films 32 a and 32 b cannot be prevented.

In the B-B′ cross section of FIG. 6, the steps of forming cover films include steps of forming the cover films 32 a and 32 b by depositing silicon oxide or silicon nitride by CVD. On the other hand, in the A-A′ cross section of FIG. 6, after the formation of the cover films 32 a and 32 b, a resist pattern having an opening corresponding to the opening 2 a is formed on the cover film 32 b by photolithography. Subsequently, the cover films 32 a and 32 b are etched by anisotropic etching to form the groove of the opening 2 a. Note that the position of an edge of the opening 2 a at the side of the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3 is substantially aligned with the position of an edge of the wirings 45 a, 45 b, 45 c, 45 d, 45 e, 45 f, and 45 g forming the metal line 2 b at the side of the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3, when viewed in the cross-sectional view. This is because a crack propagating from an edge of the opening 2 a propagates along the metal line 2 b as shown by the arrow 62 in the case where the metal line 2 b is provided.

In the method of producing a semiconductor device of the first embodiment, the metal line 2 b and the opening 2 a can be easily formed by the same steps as those of forming a semiconductor element and wirings in the element region 8 a. As a result, propagation of cracks from the metal line 2 b to the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3 can be prevented.

Second Embodiment

A semiconductor device of a second embodiment will now be described with reference to FIG. 7. In the semiconductor device of the second embodiment, wirings forming the metal line 2 b of the first embodiment are changed to wiring-and-plugs.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing an A-A′ cross section of the semiconductor device of the second embodiment. FIG. 7 shows a scribe edge 1, an opening 2 a, a metal line 2 b, a moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3, an insulating film 16, a contact interlayer film 17, a contact interlayer film 18, wiring interlayer films 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, and 31, and cover films 32 a and 32 b.

The same components as those shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 3A, 3B, 5A, 5B, 5C, and 6 are assigned the same reference numerals.

The plan view of the semiconductor device of the second embodiment is the same as FIG. 1 or FIG. 2. Accordingly, the planar positional relationship of the scribe edge 1, the opening 2 a, the metal line 2 b, and moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3 is the same as the positional relationship described with reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2.

However, the metal line 2 b shown in FIG. 7 differs from the metal line 2 b of the first embodiment in that the metal line 2 b of this embodiment is composed of wiring-and-plugs 47 a, 47 b, 47 c, 47 d, 47 e, 47 f, and 47 g.

The wiring-and-plugs constituting the metal line 2 b do not include a wiring disposed at a position corresponding to the plug 46 h and the wiring 46 i forming the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3. This is because it is necessary to ensure a certain amount of the depth of a groove of the opening 2 a. As in the semiconductor device of the first embodiment, the position of an edge of the wiring-and-plugs 47 a, 47 b, 47 c, 47 d, 47 e, 47 f, and 47 g at the side of the element region 8 a is aligned with the position of an edge of the groove of the opening 2 a at the side of the element region 8 a.

Each of the wiring-and-plugs 47 a, 47 b, 47 c, 47 d, 47 e, 47 f, and 47 g is connected to adjacent wiring-and-plugs and integrated with each other.

The wiring-and-plug 47 a is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the contact interlayer film 18 and a contact plug embedded in a via in the contact interlayer film 17. Here, the via includes not only a known via used in the element region 8 a but also a groove-shaped via. The above wiring and contact plug are made of copper covered with tantalum or tantalum nitride. Tantalum or tantalum nitride functions as a diffusion-preventing film that prevents copper from diffusing in the contact interlayer films 17 and 18. The wiring-and-plug 47 a is formed together with the wiring-and-plug 33 in the element region 8 a by a dual damascene process.

The wiring-and-plug 47 b is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 20 and a contact plug embedded in a via in the wiring interlayer film 19. The wiring-and-plug 47 b is formed together with the wiring-and-plug 34 in the element region 8 a by a dual damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring-and-plug.

The wiring-and-plug 47 c is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 22 and a contact plug embedded in a via in the wiring interlayer film 21. The wiring-and-plug 47 c is formed together with the wiring-and-plug 35 in the element region 8 a by a dual damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring-and-plug.

The wiring-and-plug 47 d is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 24 and a contact plug embedded in a via in the wiring interlayer film 23. The wiring-and-plug 47 d is formed together with the wiring-and-plug 36 in the element region 8 a by a dual damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring-and-plug.

The wiring-and-plug 47 e is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 26 and a contact plug embedded in a via in the wiring interlayer film 25. The wiring-and-plug 47 e is formed together with the wiring-and-plug 37 in the element region 8 a by a dual damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring-and-plug.

The wiring-and-plug 47 f is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 28 and a contact plug embedded in a via in the wiring interlayer film 27. The wiring-and-plug 47 f is formed together with the wiring-and-plug 38 in the element region 8 a by a dual damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring-and-plug.

The wiring-and-plug 47 g is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 30 and a contact plug embedded in a via in the wiring interlayer film 29. The wiring-and-plug 47 g is formed together with the wiring-and-plug 39 in the element region 8 a by a dual damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring-and-plug.

Referring to FIG. 3A, it is believed that, in the scribe region 8 b, a crack formed in the scribe edge 1 during cutting of the semiconductor device propagates along wiring interlayer films as shown by the arrow 60 or 61.

Referring to FIG. 7, in the metal line 2 b of the second embodiment, a metal material embedded in a groove or a via provided in all the wiring interlayer films is present. Accordingly, it is believed that the metal line 2 b of the second embodiment has a higher effect of preventing propagation of cracks in the wiring interlayer films than that of the metal line 2 b of the first embodiment.

Insulating materials constituting the wiring interlayer films, which will be described below, do not have elasticity. Therefore, such insulating materials are easily broken when stress is applied thereto. In contrast, metal materials have elasticity, and thus, it is believed that such metal materials are not broken even when stress is applied thereto. The reason for this is as follows. Metal materials have elasticity. Therefore, when stress due to propagation of cracks is applied to a metal material, the metal material undergoes elastic deformation, thereby releasing the stress.

Accordingly, the metal line 2 b of the second embodiment has an effect of reliably preventing propagation of cracks in the wiring interlayer films.

Thus, the semiconductor device of the second embodiment is a semiconductor device having a crack-propagation-preventing structure composed of the metal line 2 b and the opening 2 a.

As described above, the metal line 2 b of the second embodiment can also be easily formed by the same steps as those of forming a semiconductor element and wirings in the element region 8 a.

Third Embodiment

A semiconductor device of a third embodiment will now be described with reference to FIG. 8. In the semiconductor device of the third embodiment, the width of wirings constituting a metal line 2 b is large, and the wirings project to the side of the scribe region 8 b.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing an A-A′ cross section of the semiconductor device of the third embodiment. FIG. 8 shows a scribe edge 1, an opening 2 a, a metal line 2 b, a moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3, an insulating film 16, a contact interlayer film 17, a contact interlayer film 18, wiring interlayer films 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, and 31, and cover films 32 a and 32 b.

The same components as those shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 3A, 3B, 5A, 5B, 5C, and 6 are assigned the same reference numerals.

The plan view of the semiconductor device of the third embodiment is the same as FIG. 1 or FIG. 2. Accordingly, the planar positional relationship of the scribe edge 1, the opening 2 a, the metal line 2 b, and moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3 is the same as the positional relationship described with reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2.

However, the metal line 2 b shown in FIG. 8 differs from the metal line 2 b of the first embodiment in that the metal line 2 b is composed of wirings 48 a, 48 b, 48 c, 48 d, 48 e, 48 f, and 48 g.

The wirings constituting the metal line 2 b do not include a wiring disposed at a position corresponding to the plug 46 h and the wiring 46 i forming the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3. This is because it is necessary to ensure a certain amount of the depth of a groove of the opening 2 a. As in the semiconductor device of the first embodiment, the position of an edge of the wirings 48 a, 48 b, 48 c, 48 d, 48 e, 48 f, and 48 g at the side of the element region 8 a is aligned with the position of an edge of the groove of the opening 2 a at the side of the element region 8 a.

The width of each of the wirings 48 a, 48 b, 48 c, 48 d, 48 e, 48 f, and 48 g is larger than the width of the groove of the opening 2 a. An edge of each of the wirings 48 a to 48 g at the side of the scribe region 8 b projects toward the side of the scribe region 8 b with respect to an edge of the groove of the opening 2 a at the side of the scribe region 8 b.

The wiring 48 a is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the contact interlayer film 18. This wiring 48 a is made of copper covered with tantalum or tantalum nitride. Tantalum or tantalum nitride functions as a diffusion-preventing film that prevents copper from diffusing in the contact interlayer film 18. The wiring 48 a is formed together with the wiring portion of the wiring-and-plug 33 in the element region 8 a by a damascene process.

The wiring 48 b is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 20. The wiring 48 b is formed together with the wiring portion of the wiring-and-plug 34 in the element region 8 a by a damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring.

The wiring 48 c is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 22. The wiring 48 c is formed together with the wiring portion of the wiring-and-plug 35 in the element region 8 a by a damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring.

The wiring 48 d is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 24. The wiring 48 d is formed together with the wiring portion of the wiring-and-plug 36 in the element region 8 a by a damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring.

The wiring 48 e is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 26. The wiring 48 e is formed together with the wiring portion of the wiring-and-plug 37 in the element region 8 a by a damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring.

The wiring 48 f is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 28. The wiring 48 f is formed together with the wiring portion of the wiring-and-plug 38 in the element region 8 a by a damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring.

The wiring 48 g is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 30. The wiring 48 g is formed together with the wiring portion of the wiring-and-plug 39 in the element region 8 a by a damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring.

Referring to FIG. 3A, it is believed that, in the scribe region 8 b, a crack formed in the scribe edge 1 during cutting of the semiconductor device propagates along wiring interlayer films as shown by the arrow 60 or 61.

Consequently, referring to FIG. 8, in the metal line 2 b of the third embodiment, a metal material embedded in grooves in the wiring interlayer films is present. In addition, an edge of the grooves for the metal line 2 b of the third embodiment at the side of the scribe region 8 b is located nearer the scribe region 8 b, compared with an edge of the grooves for the metal line 2 b of the first embodiment at the side of the scribe region 8 b. Therefore, it is believed that the metal line 2 b of the third embodiment has a higher effect of preventing propagation of cracks in the wiring interlayer films than the effect achieved by the metal line 2 b of the first embodiment. The reason for this is as follows. Since the width of the each of the grooves including the metal material therein is large and an end of each of the grooves is located nearer to the scribe region 8 b, propagation of cracks from the scribe region 8 b can be stopped at a position nearer to the scribe region 8 b.

Accordingly, the metal line 2 b of the third embodiment has an effect of more strongly and reliably preventing propagation of cracks in the wiring interlayer films.

Thus, the semiconductor device of the third embodiment is a semiconductor device having a crack-propagation-preventing structure composed of the metal line 2 b and the opening 2 a.

As described above, the metal line 2 b of the third embodiment can also be easily formed by the same steps as those of forming a semiconductor element and wirings in the element region 8 a.

Fourth Embodiment

Semiconductor devices of a fourth embodiment will now be described with reference to FIGS. 9, 10, 11, and 12. In the semiconductor devices of the fourth embodiment, a metal line 4 is further provided between a metal line 2 b and a scribe region 8 b.

FIG. 9 is a plan view showing a semiconductor device of the fourth embodiment. FIG. 9 shows a scribe edge 1, an opening 2 a, a metal line 2 b, a moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3, the metal line 4, the element region 8 a, the scribe region 8 b, and an outer peripheral region 8 c. The same components as those shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. 2 are assigned the same reference numerals.

Accordingly, the description and the arrangement of the scribe edge 1, the opening 2 a, the metal line 2 b, the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3, the element region 8 a, the scribe region 8 b, and the outer peripheral region 8 c are the same as the description and the arrangement in FIG. 1 or FIG. 2.

The metal line 4 is disposed between the opening 2 a and the metal line 2 b provided thereunder and the scribe edge 1 in plan view so as to surround the element region 8 a. The metal line 4 is composed of a metal wiring having a certain width and forms a continuous frame. As described below, the metal line 4 is composed of a metal material embedded in grooves in a plurality of wiring interlayer films. That is, each of the grooves also has a continuous frame shape.

FIG. 10 is a plan view showing a modification of the semiconductor device of the fourth embodiment. FIG. 10 shows a scribe edge 1, an opening 2 a, a metal line 2 b, a moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3, a metal line 7, the element region 8 a, the scribe region 8 b, and an outer peripheral region 8 c. The same components as those shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. 2 are assigned the same reference numerals.

Accordingly, the description and the arrangement of the scribe edge 1, the opening 2 a, the metal line 2 b, the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3, the element region 8 a, the scribe region 8 b, and the outer peripheral region 8 c are the same as the description and the arrangement in FIG. 1 or FIG. 2.

The metal line 7 is disposed between the opening 2 a and the metal line 2 b provided thereunder and the scribe edge 1 in plan view so as to surround the element region 8 a. The metal line 7 is composed of a metal wiring having a certain width and a certain length and is arranged so as to form a discontinuous frame. As described below, the metal line 7 is composed of a metal material embedded in grooves in a plurality of wiring interlayer films. That is, each of the grooves also has a certain width and a certain length and arranged so as to form a continuous frame.

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a first example of an A-A′ cross-sectional structure of the semiconductor device of the fourth embodiment. FIG. 11 shows a scribe edge 1, an opening 2 a, the metal line 2 b, the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3, a metal line 4 or 7, an insulating film 16, a contact interlayer film 17, a contact interlayer film 18, wiring interlayer films 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, and 31, and cover films 32 a and 32 b.

The same components as those shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 3A, 3B, 5A, 5B, 5C, and 6 are assigned the same reference numerals. Accordingly, the structures of the wirings 45 a, 45 b, 45 c, 45 d, 45 e, 45 f, and 45 g constituting the metal line 2 b are the same as those shown in FIG. 3A.

The cross-sectional view shown by FIG. 11 differs from the cross-sectional view showing the A-A′ cross section of the semiconductor device of the first embodiment shown by FIG. 3A in that the metal line 4 or 7 is further provided.

The metal line 4 or 7 shown in FIG. 11 is composed of wirings 51 a, 51 b, 51 c, 51 d, 51 e, 51 f, and 51 g.

The wirings constituting the metal line 4 or 7 do not include a wiring disposed at a position corresponding to the plug 46 h and the wiring 46 i forming the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3. This is because it is necessary to ensure a certain amount of the depth of a groove of the opening 2 a. The wirings 51 a, 51 b, 51 c, 51 d, 51 e, 51 f, and 51 g are disposed between the scribe edge 1 and the metal line 2 b.

Each of the wirings 51 a, 51 b, 51 c, 51 d, 51 e, 51 f, and 51 g preferably has the same width as that of each of the wirings constituting the metal line 2 b. However, the width of the wirings 51 a to 51 g is not particularly limited as long as the wirings 51 a to 51 g do not project to the scribe region 8 b.

The wiring 51 a is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the contact interlayer film 18. This wiring 51 a is made of copper covered with tantalum or tantalum nitride. Tantalum or tantalum nitride functions as a diffusion-preventing film that prevents copper from diffusing in the contact interlayer film 18. The wiring 51 a is formed together with the wiring portion of the wiring-and-plug 33 in the element region 8 a by a damascene process.

The wiring 51 b is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 20. The wiring 51 b is formed together with the wiring portion of the wiring-and-plug 34 in the element region 8 a by a damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring.

The wiring 51 c is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 22. The wiring 51 c is formed together with the wiring portion of the wiring-and-plug 35 in the element region 8 a by a damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring.

The wiring 51 d is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 24. The wiring 51 d is formed together with the wiring portion of the wiring-and-plug 36 in the element region 8 a by a damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring.

The wiring 51 e is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 26. The wiring 51 e is formed together with the wiring portion of the wiring-and-plug 37 in the element region 8 a by a damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring.

The wiring 51 f is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 28. The wiring 51 f is formed together with the wiring portion of the wiring-and-plug 38 in the element region 8 a by a damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring.

The wiring 51 g is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 30. The wiring 51 g is formed together with the wiring portion of the wiring-and-plug 39 in the element region 8 a by a damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing a second example of an A-A′ cross-sectional structure of the semiconductor device of the fourth embodiment. FIG. 12 shows a scribe edge 1, an opening 2 a, the metal line 2 b, the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3, a metal line 4 or 7, an insulating film 16, a contact interlayer film 17, a contact interlayer film 18, wiring interlayer films 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, and 31, and cover films 32 a and 32 b.

The same components as those shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 3A, 3B, 5A, 5B, 5C, 6, and 7 are assigned the same reference numerals. Accordingly, the structures of the wiring-and-plugs 47 a, 47 b, 47 c, 47 d, 47 e, 47 f, and 47 g constituting the metal line 2 b are the same as those shown in FIG. 7.

The cross-sectional view shown by FIG. 12 differs from the cross-sectional view showing the A-A′ cross section of the semiconductor device of the second embodiment shown by FIG. 7 in that the metal line 4 or 7 is further provided.

The metal line 4 or 7 shown in FIG. 12 is composed of wirings 51 a, 51 b, 51 c, 51 d, 51 e, 51 f, and 51 g.

The wirings constituting the metal line 4 or 7 do not include a wiring disposed at a position corresponding to the plug 46 h and the wiring 46 i forming the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3. This is because it is necessary to ensure a certain amount of the depth of a groove of the opening 2 a. The wirings 51 a, 51 b, 51 c, 51 d, 51 e, 51 f, and 51 g are disposed between the scribe edge 1 and the metal line 2 b.

Each of the wirings 51 a, 51 b, 51 c, 51 d, 51 e, 51 f, and 51 g preferably has the same width as that of each of the wirings constituting the metal line 2 b. However, the width of the wirings 51 a to 51 g is not particularly limited as long as the wirings 51 a to 51 g do not project to the scribe region 8 b.

The wirings 51 a, 51 b, 51 c, 51 d, 51 e, 51 f, and 51 g are the same as those described in FIG. 11.

Referring to FIG. 3A, it is believed that, in the scribe region 8 b, a crack formed in the scribe edge 1 during cutting of the semiconductor device propagates along wiring interlayer films as shown by the arrow 60 or 61.

Accordingly, the reason why the portion of the metal line 2 b of the fourth embodiment has an effect of preventing propagation of cracks in the wiring interlayer films is the same as that described in the first embodiment or the second embodiment.

On the other hand, the metal line 4 or 7 of the fourth embodiment has an effect of reducing the number of cracks propagating from the scribe region 8 b. Although the metal line 4 or 7 is not provided in all the wiring interlayer films, in the wiring interlayer films including the wirings 51 a to 51 g constituting the metal line 4 or 7, the metal line 4 or 7 has an effect of preventing propagation of cracks. This is because the metal line 4 or 7 has the same effect as that of the metal line 2 b. Furthermore, when cracks propagate through the wiring interlayer films disposed between the wirings 51 a to 51 g constituting the metal line 4 or 7, the metal line 4 or 7 has an effect of limiting the dimension of the cracks. This is because the wirings 51 a to 51 g reinforce the wiring interlayer films.

Accordingly, the metal line 2 b and the metal line 4 or 7 of the fourth embodiment has an effect of more strongly and reliably preventing propagation of cracks in the wiring interlayer films.

Thus, the semiconductor device of the fourth embodiment is a semiconductor device having a crack-propagation-preventing structure composed of the metal line 2 b, the metal line 4 or 7, and the opening 2 a.

As described above, the metal line 2 b and the metal line 4 or 7 of the fourth embodiment can also be easily formed by the same steps as those of forming a semiconductor element and wirings in the element region 8 a.

Fifth Embodiment

A semiconductor device of a fifth embodiment and modifications thereof will now be described with reference to FIGS. 13, 14, and 15. In the semiconductor device of the fifth embodiment, a metal line 5 is further provided between a metal line 2 b and a moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3.

FIG. 13 is a plan view showing the semiconductor device according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 13 shows a scribe edge 1, an opening 2 a, a metal line 2 b, a moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3, a metal line 4, a metal line 5, the element region 8 a, the scribe region 8 b, and an outer peripheral region 8 c. The same components as those shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 2, or FIG. 9 are assigned the same reference numerals.

Accordingly, the description and the arrangement of the scribe edge 1, the opening 2 a, the metal line 2 b, the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3, the metal line 4, the element region 8 a, the scribe region 8 b, and the outer peripheral region 8 c are the same as the description and the arrangement in FIG. 1, FIG. 2, or FIG. 9.

The metal line 5 is disposed between the opening 2 a and the metal line 2 b provided thereunder and the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3 in plan view so as to surround the element region 8 a. The metal line 5 is composed of a metal wiring having a certain width and forms a continuous frame. As described below, the metal line 5 is composed of a metal material embedded in grooves in a plurality of wiring interlayer films. That is, each of the grooves also has a continuous frame shape.

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of an A-A′ cross-sectional structure of the semiconductor device of the fifth embodiment. FIG. 14 shows a scribe edge 1, an opening 2 a, the metal line 2 b, the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3, a metal line 4, a metal line 5, an insulating film 16, a contact interlayer film 17, a contact interlayer film 18, wiring interlayer films 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, and 31, and cover films 32 a and 32 b.

The same components as those shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 3A, 3B, 5A, 5B, 5C, 6, and 11 are assigned the same reference numerals. Accordingly, the structures of the wirings 45 a, 45 b, 45 c, 45 d, 45 e, 45 f, and 45 g constituting the metal line 2 b are the same as those shown in FIG. 3A. The structures of the wirings 51 a, 51 b, 51 c, 51 d, 51 e, 51 f, and 51 g constituting the metal line 4 are also the same as those shown in FIG. 11.

The cross-sectional view shown by FIG. 14 differs from the cross-sectional view showing the A-A′ cross section of the semiconductor device of the fourth embodiment shown by FIG. 11 in that the metal line 5 is further provided.

The metal line 5 shown in FIG. 14 is composed of wirings 52 a, 52 b, 52 c, 52 d, 52 e, 52 f, and 52 g.

The wirings constituting the metal line 5 do not include a wiring disposed at a position corresponding to the plug 46 h and the wiring 46 i forming the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3. This is because it is necessary to ensure a certain amount of the depth of a groove of the opening 2 a. The wirings 52 a, 52 b, 52 c, 52 d, 52 e, 52 f, and 52 g are disposed between the metal line 2 b and the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3.

Each of the wirings 52 a, 52 b, 52 c, 52 d, 52 e, 52 f, and 52 g preferably has the same width as that of each of the wirings constituting the metal line 2 b. However, the width of the wirings 52 a to 52 g is not particularly limited as long as the wirings 52 a to 52 g are not in contact with the metal line 2 b and the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3.

The wiring 52 a is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the contact interlayer film 18. This wiring 52 a is made of copper covered with tantalum or tantalum nitride. Tantalum or tantalum nitride functions as a diffusion-preventing film that prevents copper from diffusing in the contact interlayer film 18. The wiring 52 a is formed together with the wiring portion of the wiring-and-plug 33 in the element region 8 a by a damascene process.

The wiring 52 b is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 20. The wiring 52 b is formed together with the wiring portion of the wiring-and-plug 34 in the element region 8 a by a damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring.

The wiring 52 c is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 22. The wiring 52 c is formed together with the wiring portion of the wiring-and-plug 35 in the element region 8 a by a damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring.

The wiring 52 d is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 24. The wiring 52 d is formed together with the wiring portion of the wiring-and-plug 36 in the element region 8 a by a damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring.

The wiring 52 e is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 26. The wiring 52 e is formed together with the wiring portion of the wiring-and-plug 37 in the element region 8 a by a damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring.

The wiring 52 f is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 28. The wiring 52 f is formed together with the wiring portion of the wiring-and-plug 38 in the element region 8 a by a damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring.

The wiring 52 g is composed of a wiring embedded in a groove in the wiring interlayer film 30. The wiring 52 g is formed together with the wiring portion of the wiring-and-plug 39 in the element region 8 a by a damascene process as in the above-mentioned wiring.

Referring to FIG. 3A, it is believed that, in the scribe region 8 b, a crack formed in the scribe edge 1 during cutting of the semiconductor device propagates along wiring interlayer films as shown by the arrow 60 or 61.

Accordingly, the reason why the portion of the metal line 2 b of the fifth embodiment has an effect of preventing propagation of cracks in the wiring interlayer films is the same as that described in the first embodiment or the second embodiment.

In addition, the metal line 4 of the fifth embodiment has an effect of decreasing the number of cracks propagating from the scribe region 8 b. The reason for this is the same as that described in the fourth embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 3A again, the present inventor has found that a crack formed at an edge of the opening 2 a propagates in the direction shown by the arrow 62. However, the crack may propagate in the direction shown by the arrow 63 in some cases.

Consequently, it is believed that, when the wirings 52 a to 52 g constituting the metal line 5 of the fifth embodiment are provided, even in the case where a crack propagates in the direction shown by the arrow 63, propagation of the crack can be prevented.

This is because since the wirings 52 a to 52 g constituting the metal line 5 are embedded in the grooves of wiring interlayer films, propagation of a crack in the wiring interlayer films can be prevented. More specifically, the wirings 52 a to 52 g, which are made of a metal material, have elasticity. Accordingly, when stress due to propagation of a crack is applied to the metal material, the metal material undergoes elastic deformation, thereby releasing the stress. Furthermore, since the wirings 52 a to 52 g are made of a metal material and have elasticity, it is believed that a large stress is required for breaking the wirings 52 a to 52 g.

Accordingly, the metal line 2 b, the metal line 4, and the metal line 5 of the fifth embodiment has an effect of more strongly preventing propagation of cracks in the wiring interlayer films.

Thus, the semiconductor device of the fifth embodiment is a semiconductor device having a crack-propagation-preventing structure composed of the metal line 2 b, the metal line 4, the metal line 5, and the opening 2 a.

As described above, the metal line 2 b, the metal line 4, and the metal line 5 of the fifth embodiment can also be easily formed by the same steps as those of forming a semiconductor element and wirings in the element region 8 a.

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing an A-A′ cross-sectional structure of a modification 1 of the semiconductor device of the fifth embodiment. FIG. 15 shows a scribe edge 1, an opening 2 a, a metal line 9, a moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3, a metal line 4, an insulating film 16, a contact interlayer film 17, a contact interlayer film 18, wiring interlayer films 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, and 31, and cover films 32 a and 32 b.

The same components as those shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 3A, 3B, 5A, 5B, 5C, 6, 11, and 14 are assigned the same reference numerals. Accordingly, the structures of the wirings 51 a, 51 b, 51 c, 51 d, 51 e, 51 f, and 51 g constituting the metal line 4 are the same as those shown in FIG. 11. The structures of the wirings 51 a, 51 b, 51 c, 51 d, 51 e, 51 f, and 51 g constituting the metal line 4 are also the same as those shown in FIG. 11.

The cross-sectional view shown by FIG. 15 differs from the cross-sectional view showing the A-A′ cross section of the semiconductor device of the fifth embodiment shown by FIG. 11 in that the metal line 2 b and the metal line 5 are integrated to form a metal line 9.

The metal line 9 shown in FIG. 15 is composed of wirings 53 a, 53 b, 53 c, 53 d, 53 e, 53 f, and 53 g.

The wirings constituting the metal line 9 do not include a wiring disposed at a position corresponding to the plug 46 h and the wiring 46 i forming the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3. This is because it is necessary to ensure a certain amount of the depth of a groove of the opening 2 a. The wirings 53 a, 53 b, 53 c, 53 d, 53 e, 53 f, and 53 g are disposed between the metal line 4 and the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3.

The wirings 53 a, 53 b, 53 c, 53 d, 53 e, 53 f, and 53 g are metal wirings each having a width that two-dimensionally extends from a position overlapping with the opening 2 a to the metal line 5 shown in FIG. 14. The wirings 53 a, 53 b, 53 c, 53 d, 53 e, 53 f, and 53 g may two-dimensionally extend from a position below the opening 2 a to a position where the wirings 53 a to 53 g are not in contact with the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3.

Referring to FIG. 3A, it is believed that a crack formed in the scribe edge 1 during cutting of the semiconductor device propagates along wiring interlayer films as shown by the arrow 60 or 61.

The reason why the metal line 4 of the fifth embodiment has an effect of reducing the number of cracks propagating from the scribe region 8 b is the same that described in the fourth embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 3A again, the present inventor has found that a crack formed at an edge of the opening 2 a propagates in the direction shown by the arrow 62. However, the crack may propagate in the direction shown by the arrow 63 in some cases.

Consequently, it is believed that, when the wirings 53 a to 53 g constituting the metal line 9 of the modification 1 of the fifth embodiment are provided, even in the case where a crack propagates in the direction shown by the arrow 63, propagation of the crack can be prevented.

This is because since the wirings 53 a to 53 g constituting the metal line 9 are provided in the grooves of wiring interlayer films, propagation of a crack in the wiring interlayer films can be prevented. Furthermore, since the wirings 53 a to 53 g are made of a metal material and have elasticity, it is believed that a large stress is required for breaking the wirings 53 a to 53 g.

Accordingly, the metal line 4 and the metal line 9 of the modification 1 of the fifth embodiment has an effect of more strongly preventing propagation of cracks in the wiring interlayer films.

Thus, the modification 1 of the semiconductor device of the fifth embodiment is a semiconductor device having a crack-propagation-preventing structure composed of the metal line 4, the metal line 9, and the opening 2 a.

As described above, the metal line 4 and the metal line 9 of the modification 1 of the fifth embodiment can also be easily formed by the same steps as those of forming a semiconductor element and wirings in the element region 8 a.

A modification 2 of the semiconductor device of the fifth embodiment will now be described. The modification 2 of the semiconductor device of the fifth embodiment is an example in which the metal line 4 and the metal line 9 in FIG. 15 are formed as an integrated metal line. More specifically, the modification 2 of the semiconductor device of the fifth embodiment is an example in which each of the wirings 51 a to 51 g constituting the metal line 4 and each of the wirings 53 a to 53 g constituting the metal line 9 are integrally formed.

That is, the integrated metal line, which is formed so that the metal line 4 and the metal line 9 are integrated with each other, is disposed between the scribe edge 1 and the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3. The width of the integrated metal line is not particularly limited as long as the integrated metal line is disposed between the scribe edge 1 and the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3.

As described above, the metal line 4 and the metal line 9 of the modification 2 of the fifth embodiment can also be easily formed by the same steps as those of forming a semiconductor element and wirings in the element region 8 a.

In the case where the metal line 4 and the metal line 9 are further integrally formed in FIG. 15, the effect of preventing propagation of cracks due to the presence of the metal line 4, which has been described in the fourth embodiment, is added to the effect of preventing propagation of cracks due to the presence of the metal line 9.

Sixth Embodiment

In the semiconductor devices described in the first embodiment to the fifth embodiment, patterns except for the metal line 4, which is disposed in the scribe region 8 b located between an opening 2 a provided in cover films 32 a and 32 b of a target semiconductor device and an opening 2 a of another semiconductor device adjacent to the target semiconductor device, are not considered from the standpoint of formation of cracks. However, when process check monitor (PCM) patterns are provided in the scribe region 8 b, cracks can be intensively formed near the PCM patterns. In view of this problem, a semiconductor device of a sixth embodiment includes patterns that are arranged so as to prevent propagation of cracks with paying attention to the presence of PCM patterns.

A sixth embodiment will now be described with reference to FIG. 16. FIG. 16 is a plan view of a portion where scribe regions 8 b intersect each other in the case where semiconductor devices of the sixth embodiment are arranged in a matrix shape. In FIG. 16, PCM patterns 80, a PCM pattern 81, a metal line 64 a, and a metal line 64 b are arranged in a scribe region 8 b that is disposed between semiconductor devices and that extends in the horizontal direction. In addition, in FIG. 16, PCM patterns 82 are arranged in a scribe region 8 b that is disposed between semiconductor devices and that extends in the vertical direction. Furthermore, a moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3 and an opening 2 a are arranged in an outer peripheral region 8 c. Each of the semiconductor devices of the sixth embodiment includes an element region 8 a and an outer peripheral region 8 c. The scribe region 8 b is an area located between scribe edges 1. Note that a metal line 2 b is not arranged in the outer peripheral region 8 c.

The element region 8 a, the scribe region 8 b, the outer peripheral region 8 c, the opening 2 a, and the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3 are the same as those described in the first embodiment. Therefore, a description of these components is omitted.

Each of the PCM patterns 80, 81, and 82 is composed of two or more patterns that are simultaneously formed with two or more patterns among patterns constituting an element provided in the element region 8 a. These PCM patterns 80, 81, and 82 are patterns used for checking the state of positional alignment of patterns constituting the element. Each of the PCM patterns 80, 81, and 82 involves a forbidden region where other patterns cannot be arranged, the forbidden region being located within a predetermined distance from the PCM patterns 80, 81, and 82. The reason for this is as follows. When the state of positional alignment of patterns is checked with a laser beam using the PCM patterns 80, 81, and 82, if other patterns are arranged, laser beam light reflected from the other patterns and laser beam light reflected from the patterns constituting the PCM patterns 80, 81, and 82 may interfere with each other. In such a case, the state of positional alignment of patterns constituting the PCM patterns 80, 81, and 82 cannot be accurately detected.

Each of the PCM patterns 80 is composed of four long rectangular patterns 65 a, four long rectangular patterns 65 b, and a rectangular pattern 65 c. The four long rectangular patterns 65 a are arranged inside the rectangular pattern 65 c in the form of a rectangle so as to be disposed at the center of the rectangular pattern 65 c. Each of the rectangular patterns 65 a constitutes each side of the rectangle. The four long rectangular patterns 65 b are arranged inside the rectangular pattern 65 c in the form of a rectangle so as to be disposed around the center of the rectangular pattern 65 c. Each of the rectangular patterns 65 b constitutes each side of the rectangle. The rectangle formed by the rectangular patterns 65 a is smaller than the rectangle formed by the rectangular patterns 65 b and is arranged inside the rectangle formed by the rectangular patterns 65 b.

The PCM patterns 80 are arranged in the scribe region 8 b as a unit composed of two rows and eight columns along the side of the scribe region 8 b disposed in the horizontal direction of FIG. 16. The width of the unit of the PCM pattern 80 in the column direction is, for example, about 90% of the width of the scribe region 8 b. Accordingly, when the semiconductor devices are cut in the scribe region 8 b, a cutting blade is brought into contact with the rectangular patterns 65 a, 65 b, and 65 c and the PCM patterns 80 are broken, thus forming cracks. In this case, the positions where the cracks are formed are close to the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3.

The PCM pattern 81 is composed of a rectangular pattern 66 a and a plurality of rectangular patterns 66 b. The rectangular pattern 66 a is a pattern surrounded by short sides and long sides. The rectangular patterns 66 b are long patterns. The rectangular patterns 66 b are included in the rectangular pattern 66 a and arranged at predetermined intervals so as to be parallel with the short sides of the rectangular pattern 66 a. The PCM pattern 81 is arranged in the scribe region 8 b along the side of the scribe region 8 b disposed in the horizontal direction of FIG. 16. The width of the PCM pattern 81 is, for example, about 70% of the width of the scribe region 8 b. Accordingly, when the semiconductor devices are cut in the scribe region 8 b, a cutting blade is brought into contact with the rectangular patterns 66 a and 66 b and the PCM pattern 81 is broken, thus forming cracks. In this case, the positions where the cracks are formed are distant from the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3.

Each of the PCM patterns 82 is composed of a rectangular pattern 67 a, a plurality of rectangular patterns 67 b, and a plurality of rectangular patterns 67 c. The rectangular pattern 67 a is a square pattern. The rectangular patterns 67 b are long patterns and arranged at predetermined intervals so as to sandwich the center of the rectangular pattern 67 a and to be parallel with the right side and the left side of the rectangular pattern 67 a. The rectangular patterns 67 c are long patterns and arranged at predetermined intervals so as to sandwich the center of the rectangular pattern 67 a and to be parallel with the upper side and the lower side of the rectangular pattern 67 a. Each of the PCM patterns 82 are arranged in the scribe region 8 b along the side of the scribe region 8 b disposed in the vertical direction of FIG. 16. The width of the PCM pattern 82 is, for example, about 80% of the width of the scribe region 8 b. Accordingly, when the semiconductor devices are cut in the scribe region 8 b, a cutting blade is brought into contact with the rectangular patterns 67 a, 67 b, and 67 c and the PCM patterns 82 are broken, thus forming cracks. In this case, the positions where the cracks are formed are distant from the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3, compared with the positions where the cracks are formed in the case of the PCM patterns 80.

The metal line 64 a is composed of two long rectangular patterns disposed at both sides of the PCM patterns 80 along one row, i.e., along eight PCM patterns 80, in the unit of the PCM patterns 80. A part of the metal line 64 a disposed between the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3 and the PCM patterns 80 belongs to the outer peripheral region 8 c. Specifically, the metal line 64 a does not include patterns arranged in the column direction of the PCM patterns 80. The metal line 64 a is arranged in areas other than the forbidden region of the PCM patterns 80.

The metal line 64 a can prevent propagation of a crack formed when the PCM patterns 80 are broken immediately after the formation of the crack. This is because the propagation of the crack is blocked by metal patterns constituting the metal line 64 a. The metal patterns will be described below in detail with reference to FIGS. 17A and 17B. The metal patterns have elasticity. Therefore, when stress due to the propagation of a crack is applied to the metal patterns, the metal patterns undergo elastic deformation, thereby releasing the stress.

The metal line 64 b is a strip-shaped pattern with a small width that surrounds one row, i.e., eight PCM patterns 80, in the unit of the PCM patterns 80 so as to form a rectangle. A part of the metal line 64 b disposed between the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3 and the PCM patterns 80 belongs to the outer peripheral region 8 c. The metal line 64 b is arranged in areas other than the forbidden region of the PCM patterns 80.

As shown in the enlarged view in FIG. 16, the metal line 64 b has a discontinuous shape at corners of the metal line 64 b, and a space is provided between two adjacent patterns of the metal line 64 b. The reason for this is as follows. The pattern constituting the metal line 64 b is fine. Therefore, if such a space is not provided at a corner of the metal line 64 b, a rounded portion is formed at the corner of the metal line 64 b because of a property of a photolithographic method which is employed for forming the metal line 64 b. As a result, the corner portion of the metal line 64 b is disposed in a forbidden region of the PCM patterns 80. In this case, a function of detecting the positional alignment of the PCM patterns 80 is degraded.

The metal line 64 b can prevent propagation of a crack formed when the PCM patterns 80 are broken immediately after the formation of the crack as in the metal line 64 a.

In FIG. 16, the metal line 64 a is arranged for the upper row of the unit of the PCM patterns 80, and the metal line 64 b is arranged for the lower row thereof. Alternatively, metal lines 64 a may be arranged for the upper row and the lower row of the unit of the PCM patterns 80. Alternatively, metal lines 64 b may be arranged for the upper row and the lower row of the unit of the PCM patterns 80.

Accordingly, a part of the metal line 64 a or a part of the metal line 64 b having a length corresponding to one row of the PCM patterns 80 is arranged between the opening 2 a and the PCM patterns 80, i.e., in the outer peripheral region 8 c.

A cross section taken along line C-C′ in FIG. 16 and a cross section taken along line D-D′ in FIG. 16 will now be described with reference to FIGS. 17A and 17B.

FIG. 17A is a view showing a cross section taken along line C-C′ in FIG. 16.

Referring to FIG. 17A, interlayer insulating films including an insulating film 16, contact interlayer films 17 and 18, wiring interlayer films 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, and 31, and cover films 32 a and 32 b are provided on a substrate 15 a.

Referring to FIG. 17A, moisture-resistant frame-shaped shields 3 composed of wiring-and-plugs 46 a, 46 b, 46 c, 46 d, 46 e, 46 f, and 46 g, a plug 46 h, a wiring 46 i, all of which are provided in the interlayer insulating films, are provided in outer peripheral regions 8 c each located between an opening 2 a and an element region 8 a.

Referring to FIG. 17A, a part of metal patterns constituting the metal line 64 a and a part of metal patterns constituting the metal line 64 b are disposed not right under the openings 2 a but in the outer peripheral regions 8 c. Furthermore, other parts of the metal patterns constituting the metal line 64 a, other parts of the metal patterns constituting the metal line 64 b, and the rectangular patterns 65 a, 65 b, and 65 c constituting the PCM patterns 80 are arranged in the scribe region 8 b.

The metal patterns constituting the metal line 64 a and the metal patterns constituting the metal line 64 b are formed together with the wiring-and-plugs 46 a, 46 b, 46 c, 46 d, 46 e, 46 f, and 46 g. In addition, the above metal patterns are formed as wirings by a damascene process. Each of the metal patterns may include a plug portion of the wiring-and-plug 46 a or the like. In such a case, the metal patterns are formed by a dual damascene process, and the metal patterns formed in the interlayer insulating films are closely in contact with each other via the plug portions. It is believed that when the metal patterns have the same structure as that of the wiring-and-plug 46 a and the like, a high effect of preventing propagation of cracks can be achieved because the adhesiveness between the metal patterns and the interlayer insulating films is high.

The rectangular patterns 65 c of the PCM patterns 80 are made of the same material as a gate electrode 13. The rectangular patterns 65 c and the gate electrode 13 are simultaneously formed by the same method as a method of forming the gate electrode 13. The rectangular patterns 65 a are opening patterns provided inside each of the rectangular patterns 65 c. Accordingly, the rectangular patterns 65 a and the gate electrode 13 are also simultaneously formed by the same method as the method of forming the gate electrode 13. The rectangular patterns 65 b and an STI 10 are simultaneously formed by the same method as a method of forming the STI 10. That is, the rectangular patterns 65 b are recognized as opening patterns provided in the substrate 15 a.

FIG. 17B is a view showing a cross section taken along line D-D′ in FIG. 16.

Referring to FIG. 17B, the interlayer insulating films composed of the insulating film 16, the contact interlayer films 17 and 18, the wiring interlayer films 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, and 31, and the cover films 32 a and 32 b are provided on the substrate 15 a.

Referring to FIG. 17B, the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shields 3 composed of the wiring-and-plugs 46 a, 46 b, 46 c, 46 d, 46 e, 46 f, and 46 g, the plug 46 h, the wiring 46 i, all of which are provided in the interlayer films, are provided in the outer peripheral regions 8 c each located between an opening 2 a and an element region 8 a.

However, no patterns are provided in the scribe region 8 b. Specifically, since the PCM patterns 80 are not present, when the semiconductor devices are cut in the scribe region 8 b with a cutting blade, cracks are formed at positions distant from the moisture-resistant shield frames 3 or the openings 2 a. Accordingly, a possibility that propagation of cracks reaches the moisture-resistant shield frames 3 or the openings 2 a is low. Therefore, the metal line 64 a or the metal line 64 b may not be provided.

As described above, the metal line 64 a and the metal line 64 b are arranged in the outer peripheral region 8 c of the semiconductor device of the sixth embodiment so as to be adjacent to the PCM patterns 80. However, unlike the semiconductor devices of the first embodiment to the fifth embodiment, a metal line 2 b surrounding the element region 8 a is not arranged right under the opening 2 a.

This structure cannot improve an effect of preventing propagation of cracks over the entire outer peripheral region 8 c. However, by the presence of the metal patterns constituting the metal line 64 a or 64 b, propagation of cracks can be effectively prevented in areas where cracks are formed with a particularly high probability. This is because the effect of preventing propagation of cracks due to the presence of the metal patterns constituting the metal line 64 a or 64 b is the same as that due to the presence of the metal line 2 b described in the first embodiment to the fifth embodiment.

Alternatively, the metal line 64 a or 64 b can be used in combination with the metal line 2 b described in the first embodiment to the fifth embodiment. Such a structure can more strongly prevent propagation of cracks formed by the presence of the PCM patterns 80.

In the above-described embodiment, the metal line 64 a or 64 b is arranged for the PCM patterns. Alternatively, the metal line 64 a or 64 b may be arranged for a pattern that is provided in the scribe region in order to monitor electrical characteristics of elements.

Seventh Embodiment

In the sixth embodiment, the metal line 64 a or the metal line 64 b is composed of isolated metal patterns. In this case, when a metal material is embedded in the interlayer insulating films to form the metal patterns by a damascene process, dishing or erosion during a step of CMP occurs. As a result, a formation failure of the metal patterns may occur. Accordingly, in a seventh embodiment, a pattern for preventing the occurrence of dishing or erosion during a step of CMP is provided so as to be adjacent to the above-mentioned metal patterns.

The seventh embodiment will now be described with reference to FIG. 18. FIG. 18 is a view showing a cross section taken along line C-C′ in FIG. 16 in the seventh embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 18, interlayer insulating films composed of an insulating film 16, contact interlayer films 17 and 18, wiring interlayer films 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, and 31, and cover films 32 a and 32 b are provided on a substrate 15 a.

Referring to FIG. 18, moisture-resistant frame-shaped shields 3 composed of wiring-and-plugs 46 a, 46 b, 46 c, 46 d, 46 e, 46 f, and 46 g, a plug 46 h, a wiring 46 i, all of which are provided in the interlayer films, are provided in outer peripheral regions 8 c each located between an opening 2 a and an element region 8 a.

Referring to FIG. 18, a part of metal patterns constituting a metal line 64 a and a part of metal patterns constituting a metal line 64 b are arranged not right under the openings 2 a but in the outer peripheral regions 8 c. Furthermore, other parts of the metal patterns constituting the metal line 64 a, other parts of the metal patterns constituting the metal line 64 b, and rectangular patterns 65 a, 65 b, and 65 c constituting PCM patterns 80 are arranged in a scribe region 8 b.

Referring to FIG. 18, dummy patterns 68 and 69 are arranged so as to be adjacent to the metal line 64 a or the metal line 64 b in the outer peripheral regions 8 c and the scribe region 8 b.

In the above semiconductor device, the metal lines 64 a and 64 b; the substrate 15 a; the interlayer insulating films composed of the insulating film 16, the contact interlayer films 17 and 18, the wiring interlayer films 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, and 31, and cover films 32 a and 32 b; the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3 composed of the wiring-and-plugs 46 a, 46 b, 46 c, 46 d, 46 e, 46 f, and 46 g, the plug 46 h, and the wiring 46 i; the opening 2 a; the element region 8 a; the scribe region 8 b; the outer peripheral region 8 c; and the scribe edge 1 are the same as those in the above-described embodiments.

The dummy pattern 68 include metal patterns provided in the contact interlayer film 18, the wiring interlayer films 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, and 30. The dummy pattern 68 is disposed between the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3 and the metal line 64 a or 64 b. The dummy pattern 68 is formed by a damascene process as in the above-described metal patterns constituting the metal line 64 a or 64 b in the wiring interlayer films. In this structure, a pattern formation failure caused by dishing or erosion during a step of CMP in the damascene process can be prevented.

The dummy pattern 69 include metal patterns provided in the contact interlayer film 18, the wiring interlayer films 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, and 30. The dummy pattern 69 is disposed on the PCM patterns 80 between the metal line 64 a and the metal line 64 a or between the metal line 64 b and the metal line 64 b. The dummy pattern 69 is formed by a damascene process as in the above-described metal patterns constituting the metal line 64 a or 64 b in the wiring interlayer films. In this structure, a pattern formation failure caused by dishing or erosion during a step of CMP in the damascene process can be prevented.

The term “dishing” refers to a phenomenon in which a metal pattern having a large width becomes concave so as to have a shallow dish shape. The term “erosion” refers to a phenomenon in which the thickness of an insulating film disposed in an area where fine metal patterns are densely arranged decreases together with the thickness of the metal patterns, as compared with that in an area where wiring patterns are not formed.

Accordingly, in the case where the dummy patterns 68 and 69 are arranged at appropriate intervals so as to be adjacent to the metal patterns constituting the metal line 64 a or 64 b, the grinding of the patterns in the step of CMP does not concentrate only on the metal patterns constituting the metal line 64 a or 64 b. Therefore, a pattern formation failure can be prevented.

In addition, the semiconductor device of the seventh embodiment also provides the same advantage as that of the semiconductor device of the sixth embodiment. Furthermore, since the dummy pattern 68 is provided between the metal line 64 a or 64 b and the moisture-resistant frame-shaped shield 3, this semiconductor device is advantageous in that propagation of cracks formed in the scribe region 8 b can be more strongly suppressed.

Eighth Embodiment

The planar shape of each of the metal patterns constituting the metal line 64 a or 64 b of the sixth embodiment and the seventh embodiment is a rectangle. However, unless the adhesiveness between a metal pattern and an interlayer insulating film in which the metal pattern is provided is sufficient, the metal pattern is separated from the interlayer insulating film, and stress in the interlayer insulating film is not transferred to the metal pattern. As a result, stress release due to elastic deformation of metal patterns does not occur, and thus propagation of a crack in interlayer insulating films is not prevented.

Consequently, a metal line of an eighth embodiment has a planar shape having irregularities in order to improve the adhesiveness between the metal patterns and the interlayer insulating films.

Planar shapes of a metal line arranged in a semiconductor device of the eighth embodiment will now be described with reference to FIGS. 19A to 19G. FIGS. 19A to 19F each show a planer shape of a metal pattern forming a metal line 64 a or 64 b.

FIG. 19A shows a basic metal line 70 for a metal pattern forming the metal line 64 a or 64 b. The basic metal line 70 is a rectangular pattern. The metal line 64 a or 64 b is formed by arranging a plurality of basic metal lines 70 at predetermined intervals. In this structure, the contact area between the metal pattern and an interlayer insulating film in which the metal pattern is provided is increased, compared with the case where the metal line 64 a or 64 b is formed as a single pattern. This is because the perimeter of the metal pattern is increased, and thus, the total area of the side faces of the metal pattern is increased.

FIG. 19B shows a basic metal line 71 for a metal pattern forming the metal line 64 a or 64 b. In the basic metal line 71, smaller rectangular patterns are arranged in two lines. Accordingly, the contact area between the metal pattern and an interlayer insulating film in which the metal pattern is provided is further increased compared with the case where the metal line 64 a or 64 b is formed using the basic metal line 70.

FIG. 19C shows a basic metal line 72 for a metal pattern forming the metal line 64 a or 64 b. In the basic metal line 72, rectangular patterns smaller than the small rectangular patterns forming the basic metal line 71 are arranged in two lines. Accordingly, the contact area between the metal pattern and an interlayer insulating film in which the metal pattern is provided is further increased compared with the case where the metal line 64 a or 64 b is formed using the basic metal line 71.

FIG. 19D shows a basic metal line 73 for a metal pattern forming the metal line 64 a or 64 b. The basic metal line 73 is a metal line in which irregularities are provided at the periphery of the basic metal line 70. The perimeter of the basic metal line 73 is increased by providing the irregularities, thus increasing the contact area between the metal pattern and an interlayer insulating film in which the metal pattern is provided.

FIG. 19E shows a basic metal line 74 for a metal pattern forming the metal line 64 a or 64 b. The basic metal line 74 is a metal line in which irregularities larger than the irregularities of the basic metal line 73 are provided at a side of the basic metal line 70. Since the perimeter of the basic metal line 74 is increased, the contact area between the metal pattern and an interlayer insulating film in which the metal pattern is provided is increased.

FIG. 19F shows a basic metal line 75 for a metal pattern forming the metal line 64 a or 64 b. In the basic metal line 75, large irregularities having a pattern shape that extends in the horizontal direction are provided at the periphery thereof. Since the perimeter of the basic metal line 75 is increased, the contact area between the metal pattern and an interlayer insulating film in which the metal pattern is provided is increased.

FIG. 19G shows a part of the shape of a mask pattern of a mask used for forming the basic metal line 73, 74, or 75.

When the basic metal line 73, 74, or 75 is formed by photolithography, small irregularities of the basic metal line 73, 74, or 75 cannot be formed in some cases because of the following reason. For example, when the basic metal line 73, 74, or 75 has small irregularities, light is diffracted on a mask pattern provided on a mask by the proximity effect of light. As a result, the mask pattern provided on the mask cannot be accurately transferred on a semiconductor substrate during exposure.

To solve this problem, by providing a recessed portion shown in FIG. 19G at a corner of the mask pattern corresponding to the basic metal line 73, 74, or 75, such small irregularities can be accurately reproduced. This is because the mask pattern is designed in consideration of the diffraction of light. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A semiconductor device comprising: a substrate that includes four corners; a region that includes an element on the substrate; a first insulating film formed above the substrate; a first metal line extending along an edge of the substrate in a plan view, the first metal line including a plurality of first wirings, a first upper most wiring of the first wirings being formed in the first insulating film, the first upper most wiring being formed of copper, one of the first wirings being formed of a single long pattern which extending along the edge of the substrate in a plan view; a second metal line extending along an edge of the substrate in a plan view; a frame-shaped shield that surrounds the region in a plan view, the first metal line being located between the frame-shaped shield and the second metal line in a plan view, the frame-shaped shield including a plurality of second wirings and a plurality of first vias, the frame-shaped shield being bent twice each time at an angle of larger than 90 degree at each of the four corners in a plan view, the frame-shaped shield being bent totally at 90 degree at each of the four corners in a plan view, the single long pattern being located between the frame-shaped shield and the second metal line in a plan view; a second insulating film formed above the first metal line and the second metal line; a groove formed in the second insulating film, the groove being overlapped with the first metal line in a plan view, the groove extending along with the first metal line in a plan view, and the groove being not overlapped with the second metal line in a plan view.
 2. The semiconductor device according to claim 1, wherein the second metal line includes a plurality of third wirings, a second upper most wiring of the third wirings is formed in the first insulating film, and the second upper most wiring is formed of copper.
 3. The semiconductor device according to claim 2, wherein the plurality of the second wirings includes a fourth wiring, the fourth wiring is formed in the first insulating film, the fourth wiring is formed of copper, the plurality of the first vias includes a second via, the fourth wiring is located on the second via and connected to the second via, and the second via and the fourth wiring are formed together of a dual damascene structure.
 4. The semiconductor device according to claim 3, further comprising a fifth wiring formed above the fourth wiring, wherein the fifth wiring is formed of aluminum.
 5. The semiconductor device according to claim 4, further comprising a plug formed on the fourth wiring and below the fifth wiring, wherein the plug is formed of tungsten, and the plug is connected to the fourth wiring and the fifth wiring.
 6. The semiconductor device according to claim 3, wherein the first uppermost wiring includes a plurality of the single long pattern in a plan view.
 7. The semiconductor device according to claim 5, wherein a bottom of the groove is located above the first upper most wiring.
 8. The semiconductor device according to claim 7, wherein the bottom of the groove is located apart from the first metal line.
 9. The semiconductor device according to claim 8, wherein the bottom of the groove is located upper than a bottom of the plug.
 10. The semiconductor device according to claim 5, wherein the frame-shaped shield is connected to the substrate.
 11. The semiconductor device according to claim 5, wherein the first upper most wiring includes a first film, the second upper most wiring includes a second film, the fourth wiring includes a third film, a first film includes tantalum, a second film includes tantalum, and a third film includes tantalum.
 12. The semiconductor device according to claim 5, wherein the groove includes discontinuous portion at the four corners in a plan view
 13. The semiconductor device according to claim 5, further comprising a check pattern located outer than the second metal line in a plan view, wherein the check pattern is adjacent to the second metal line in a plan view.
 14. The semiconductor device according to claim 5, wherein the fifth wiring is formed in the second insulating film.
 15. The semiconductor device according to claim 14, further comprising a third insulating film formed above the first insulating film and below the second insulating film, wherein the plug is formed in the third insulating film. 